In general, those with less well-controlled disease will need to test more frequently.

For those utilizing sliding scale insulin --usually newer Type I diabetics, or those with brittle disease -- it is recommended to check your sugar 4 times each day: once before each meal and then at bedtime.

If you are stable with only occasional fluctuations, one or twice a day may be adequate.

If you are a Type II diabetic, your physician may not even require fingersticks on a daily basis, depending on the number and type of anti-diabetic medications that you are taking.

Talk to your doctor about your disease to see what frequency of testing would be the best for you.

Ever wonder how you could make your life better and more fun? So have tens of millions of fans who have turned to LifeTips for answers over the past decade. We keep the tips, advice, books, podcasts and writing services flowing, so you can keep your life and business growing in the right direction. Upward!